Tuesday, February 4, 2014

Tuesday Tips: What to ask your interior designer.

Welcome to "Tuesday Tips"! Look for a new post from Mandeville Canyon Designs on Tuesdays! It will be chock full of useful decorating tips and information.

This week I thought it would be helpful to provide a few tips to prepare you for your first meeting with your interior designer.

Redesigning a room can feel like a daunting task. Hiring a professional is a smart way to avoid mistakes and to be sure you love your end product. However, there are a few things you should consider before hiring an interior designer.

Ask to see a portfolio: My portfolio is sort of like my resume, but with pictures. Take a look at other projects your designer has done. See if you like my style and the work I've done for others. Find me online! Check out my portfolio on my website, find me on Facebook or Pinterest. Read my blog. There are all sorts of ways for you to check out my work.

Make sure you understand rates & billing: The worst thing that can happen is to get a bill that you weren't expecting. Be sure you understand how youwill be billed and how often. What additional charges may occur, etc.? Discuss your budget so that you can avoid surprises down the road.

Ask for references: Any good professional will be happy to provide you with references. Ask your designer if they can connect you with someone they have done a similar project for. References are a great way to learn about your designers work ethic, personality and style. You want to make sure this will be a successful relationship!

Understand timeframes: In our modern world, we have been conditioned to think that everything can get done immediately. And we can easily become frustrated when that isn't the case. Be sure to find out how long your decorating project will take. Some items can take several weeks to arrive once ordered. Also, ask your designer how busy they are and if they are working on any other projects that may impost on your schedule.

Hiring a designer is a big decision. You want to make sure you are working with someone whom you think understands what you are looking to accomplish. It's a very personal, yet fulfilling relationship. Be sure it will work for you!